Michael Owen will be 'spoilt for choice' if he leaves Newcastle United, says Joe Kinnear

Michael Owen will be "spoilt for choice" if he decides to leave Newcastle United, according to Joe Kinnear.

In demand: Michael Owen (r) will have a slew of clubs to choose from should he move onPhoto: PA

By Rob Stewart

7:31PM GMT 07 Nov 2008

Newcastle's interim manager predicted a rush of clubs seeking Owen's services after Chelsea were tipped to move for him in January and he believes the England striker could take his pick from any top-four side if he cannot be persuaded to stay at St James' Park.

"Of course, it's understandable that other clubs are interested," Kinnear said as he prepared his side for Saturday's game against Fulham. "He is a 28-year-old, who has bags of ability and can score goals so there must be dozens who want him.

"He will be spoilt for choice. I think Michael is probably in the best position, better than the position the club are in. You would love to be in that position, wouldn't you? Michael can't lose."

The future of Newcastle's club-record £17 million signing remains so uncertain because his £110,000-per-week, four-year contract will expire in June, when he would be able to move on a free transfer.

But there has been speculation his paymasters might be prepared to sell him in January, when he would be able to start negotiating with prospective new employers. Blackburn manager Paul Ince is rumoured to be interested in a reunion with his former Liverpool colleague.

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Kinnear added: "I know what I would say to him if I keep the job: 'Stay here.' But I have no idea who may come in.

"Who's to say it won't be Manchester United, Liverpool, anybody. If all these clubs say they're chasing Michael, he is in a position to choose."

Doubts over Owen's future have increased since Newcastle were put up for sale by Mike Ashley and contract talks were placed on hold.

"I don't think it will be difficult for Newcastle to keep him but the problem is no one knows if it's being sold," Kinnear said. "If it is, it's the new owner's problem.

"I've told Michael that if my future is at this club I don't want to lose any of my best players. I'd like to think I could keep Michael."

As for Joey Barton, Kinnear claimed his hopes of an England recall are being undermined by his past misdemeanours.

"So far if you look at the strength of England's midfield players, Barton at his best would have a chance," Kinnear said. "All the past stuff about Joey has stopped him playing for England. These things do tend to die off but hopefully someone will give him a break."